The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced today that a Japanese national, claiming to be an active member of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), illegally entered the Chinese embassy in Minato district, Tokyo. The individual scaled a wall to gain forceful entry.
Hours after the incident, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated in a regular press briefing that the intruder threatened to kill Chinese diplomatic staff, claiming to act "in the name of a god."
"We are shocked by the incident and have lodged a protest with Japan," Lin said. The suspect later admitted to the act. The Chinese Foreign Ministry did not specify the individual's gender.
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Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a press conference in Beijing 2024. *Photo: AFP*
According to Lin, the nature and impact of the incident are "extremely serious." Beijing called on Tokyo to conduct a thorough investigation and provide an explanation. "The intrusion seriously violated the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, gravely threatening the personal safety of Chinese diplomatic personnel and the security of diplomatic facilities," he said. "It also highlights Japan's failure in managing and training its JSDF forces."
Tokyo has not confirmed the incident or responded to Beijing's statement. The Japanese Ministry of Defense also stated it has no detailed information and is verifying the related circumstances.
Japanese broadcaster NHK, citing investigative sources, reported the intruder was a male carrying a knife and was apprehended at the scene. Tokyo police are currently questioning the suspect.
Japan-China relations are at their lowest in years, stemming from statements by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan in 11/2025. At that time, Takaichi warned Japan might take military action if Taiwan were attacked. Taiwan is 100 km from Japan's closest island.
The Japanese Prime Minister later softened her tone to ease tensions, but China rejected this and continued to demand she retract her statements. Takaichi has so far refused to do so, simultaneously declaring that Japan will strengthen its defense capabilities and "resolutely protect" its territory.
